I agree...pull the couch away from the wall, face it toward the fireplace. Maybe put a console table behind it, possibly with a table lamp. Actually, the credenza may be tall enough to use for that purpose? Lose the uplight/floor light and definitely go with a lighter paint color, update the curtains with something that has some texture or pattern (no grommets). Or maybe put some reed blinds in as well as drapes (see pic.)
Great fireplace, but I would remove the mantel all together.
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stairs. I hate the carpet on my stairs
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